State Council of Defense established pursuant to Chapter 990 of the Public Laws of 1941, “An Act Relating to National and State Defense, Providing for the Establishment of a State Council of Defense and of Local and District Councils of Defense, and Prescribing the Powers and Duties Thereof” approved April 16, 1941. Council consisted of eleven members appointed by and serving at the pleasure of the Governor. Members chosen with reference to special knowledge of industry, agriculture, consumer protection, labor, education, health, welfare or other subjects relating to national or state defense. Governor designated as Chairman.

State Emergency Defense Act established by Chapter 1150 of the Public Laws of 1942 entitled “An act Conferring Upon the Governor and the Sate Council of Defense Emergency Powers, the Better to enable the State to Play its Proper Part in, and to Cope with, the Problems of Protection and Relief of Civilians Caused by the War in Which the Nation is Now Engaged” approved April 10, 1942. Orders, rules and regulations promulgated under act having full force and effect of law upon copy being filed in the office of the Secretary of State or with clerk of particular city or town as aurthorized under act.